Did you know that Orkney is closer to Norway than it is to London? That’s why it has a natural environment that is quite unique for the British Isles. It’s hard to believe that the lovely, beach fringed coastlines of the Orkney Islands that you see today are the result of 420 million years of fire and ice- including violent lava flows, glaciers and even the colliding of continents.
Both the Orkney and Shetland archipelagos are what remain of the mighty Caledonian mountain range, which once was as tall as the Himalayas. Over millennia, the forces of wind, surf and rain relentlessly carve into the island’s sandstone cliffs, forming the rugged coastlines here, including the spectacular 449-foot sea stack called the Old Man of Hoy.
In some places, the waves have eroded the cliffs so much, that, over time, at the sea, they have broken them down into sugary sand beaches. The rare Scottish Primrose and elusive Hen Harrier thrive in this ecosystem.
But wildlife species are not the only ones drawn here. Humans have explored these beaches for more than six thousand years. There’s just something about beachcombing in Scotland. It’s relaxing, even a bit hypnotic, as you stroll along the blue sea in search of prickly starfish, graceful seaweed in the rippling water, perfectly formed seashells and moon jellyfish.
It’s no wonder that designer Kirsteen Stewart was inspired to create a jewellery collection that reflects Orkney’s unique coast habitats. Like the islands themselves, we channel the elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water into these special pieces of sea inspired jewellery, such as our rings and necklaces, available in gold, silver or rose gold, each hand crafted using traditional methods.